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Welcome to Metro’s Best 2008. Tampa Bay is one of the premier
places to live and play in Florida, and we’ve compiled a list of the
Bay area’s best places to eat, drink, relax, enjoy and experience.
So sit back and revel in Tampa Bay.
Health and Beauty
Spa Jardin
Best Place to Get Pampered
Unwind with a facial, body treatment, manicure or pedicure. Then, get glamorous with makeup application and waxing services at the brand new Melt Out next door. Spa Jardin offers all this in an unparalleled relaxing environment. Call (813) 835-9549 or visit www.spajardin.com.
After Hours Pediatrics
Best Care for Kids After Dark
Open from 5-11p.m. on weekdays and from 1-11p.m. on weekends, your kids can get the care they need even after the doctor’s office is closed. Call (877) 538-0005 or visit www.afterhourspediatrics.com.
Vein Center
Best Non-Surgical Treatments
The Vein Center of Tampa Bay specializes in the treatment of venous diseases, but also offers a variety of non-surgical cosmetic treatments including laser hair removal and skin resurfacing. Call (866) 297-9825 or visit www.veincentertampa.com.
Salon Jack
Best Place to Look Good and Feel Good
The Bumble and Bumble trained owner, Chad Malm, not only gives fashion forward haircuts and colors to his clientele but also gives back to the community. The salon recently raised over $5,000 for the Susan G. Komen charity event, “Cut-A-Thon.” Call (813) 831-8955 or visit www.salonjack.com.
Pia’s
Best Place for a Chocolate Spa Day
Enjoy a chocolate cake body scrub, manicure, pedicure or massage. For the adventurous, they are also known for their Brazilian wax. Call (813) 831-2418 or visit www.bypia.com.
a3 Institute
Best Fresh New Look
Specializing in customized health and skin care treatments, The Anti-Aging & Aesthetic Institute works to find a treatment plan as unique as each individual, leaving only you shining through. Call (813) 251-5772 or visit www.a3institute.com.
Glow Day Spa
Best Place for ‘Couture’ Spa Treatments
This staff takes customization to a whole new level by offering unique and individual services such as ‘The Ultimate Glow’ spa package. Don’t forget to try the Mojito pedicure. Call (813) 832-8000 or visit www.glowdayspatampa.com.
Safety Harbor Resort and Spa
Best Waterfront Spa
This state-of-the-art spa offers soothing massages, facial and body therapies while soaking in the relaxing atmosphere. Now with the addition of the medi-spa, services such as Botox and other cosmetic treatments are available. Call (888) BEST-SPA or visit www.safetyharborresort.com.
Somers Salon & Spa
Best Summer Do
Snip away the dead ends caused by beach and pool damage and come away with fresh flowing tresses. Pick up Kérastase conditioning products to maintain at home. Call (727) 726-8181 or visit www.somerssalonandspa.com.
Posh Hair Studio
Best Salon for Happy Hair
Providing a range of traditional and modern hair care, including Japanese hair straightening and razor cutting, this fresh and hip salon will have everyone coming back for more. Call (727) 381-POSH or visit www.posh-hair.com.
Spa Moritz Salon & Spa
Best European-Style Salon and Spa
Feel as if you traveled to Europe for the day at this hidden treasure in New Tampa. Enjoy all the services of a typical spa but also experience bonus services such as permanent make-up, microdermabrasion and teeth whitening. Call (813) 971-4SPA or visit www.spamoritz.com.
VLVT Lounge
Best Place for Star Cut
Go for a new look with Albie Mulcahy’s “dry-cut” method. The hair styling veteran has been in the business for 30 years and knows his stuff. No more out of place stray hairs – precision equals perfection. Call (727) 278-2159.
Shopping and Style (back to top)
Perfect Match Custom Tailors
Best Place for Custom Clothes
No more worrying about shopping or matching when owner Daryl Pulido designs custom suits, shirts and ties. Perfect Match will coordinate your way to a stylish future. Call (813) 493-2693 or visit www.pmctailors.com.
Deborah Kent’s
Best Styles for the Sole
Step up in a new pair of sandals at Deborah Kent’s shoe boutique. Find the perfect match from designers Escape, Jeanne Jarvaise and Bolo. Call (813) 259-1150 or visit www.deborahkents.com.
DKM Accessories
Best Stop for Handbags
DKM gives local women bags in all shapes, sizes and styles. Find the perfect arm companion to carry all the essentials when trekking about town. Call (813) 902-0044 or visit www.dkmaccessories.com.
Sydney Buchanan
Best Fashionable Jewelry
From baubles to crosses, Sydney’s offers an array of fine and handcrafted jewelry for every occasion. Dazzle in jeans or a gown, when accessorized with these fabulous jewels and gems. Call (813) 258-9600 or visit www.sydneybuchanan.com.
Kit’s
Best Ageless Fashion
Known for their separates and wide range of choices from t-shirts to dresses, you’re sure to find the perfect outfit from head to toe at Kit’s. Call (813) 250-1253 or visit www.kitswelldressed.com.
House of Ska Boutique
Best Funky Fashion House
Polish native Ivanka Ska, owner and fashion guru of House of Ska, combines art and fashion underneath one roof to create custom dress designs for Bay area locals. Call (727) 822-7752 or visit www.ivankaska.com.
Suitcase
Best Hard to Find Fashions
Discover top fashion designers like Anna Sui and enhance the wardrobe with chic and contemporary clothing. Friends will be asking, ‘Where did you find that outfit?’ Call (813) 333-5098 or visit www.suitcaseboutique.com.
Georgette’s
Best Red Carpet Dress
The party attire boutique, Georgette’s offers an array of gowns to fit anyone’s personal style and the accessories to go with them. An Old Hyde Park Village staple, this boutique offers dresses for a stunning red carpet stroll. Call (813) 254-1141.
Ambria’s
Best Special Occasion Boutique
Create your own masterpiece with a unique and colorful evening gown embellished by intricate beading with the help of a professional and attentive staff and get ready for a night on the town. Call (727) 895-8609 or www.ambrias.com.
The Victorian Village
Best Unique Gifts
Looking for a special gift? Have no fear. The Victorian Village offers a variety of collectibles and trinkets for that special occasion including Department 56, Brighton, Yankee Candles and Vera Bradley. Call (813) 989-0908 or visit www.victorian-village.com.
Meredith Haws
Best Custom-Made Baubles
Working with the finest natural stones and gems, Meredith Haws’s handcrafted jewelry works for casual or formal attire and makes a nice gift. Available in Tampa at Deborah Kent’s and in Sarasota at The Met: Fashion House.
Maison Rouge
Best Frilly Lingerie
Bringing out the sensual and beautiful side of every woman, owner Rhonda Sheers carries a variety of intimate apparel to spice up any occasion. Call (727) 898-8400 or visit www.maisonrouge.com.
Little Peeps
Best Baby Shower Gifts
Instead of buying off the gift registry, show the future momma how much you care with a practical and creative gift from Little Peeps – definitely splurge-worthy. Call (813) 250-0044.
Seedlings
Best Organic Baby Food
With innovative baby and toddler products such as the Skiphop Splash, Seedlings caters to the modern parent and creative child. Call (813) 251-5111 or visit www.seedlings.com.
Arts and Entertainment (back to top)
Baisden Gallery
Best Art Glass Collection
This gallery is the perfect place to add to an existing collection or to start one. In addition to glass sculptures, including works by Dale Chihuly, the gallery features paintings and photography. Call (813) 250-1511 or visit www.baisdengallery.com.
The Arts Center
Best Place to Explore the Creative Side
Enjoy a variety of rotating exhibits or sign up for a class and take a shot at creating your own art in one of the many offered mediums. Summer camps and kids programs are also available. Call (727) 822-7872 or visit www.theartscenter.org.
Salvador Dalí Museum
Best Dalí Collection Outside Spain
The focus of surrealism in Dalí’s paintings has the ability to intrigue even the most unreceptive art lover. Take a tour of one of the most extensive collected works by the acclaimed artist. Call (727) 823-3767 or visit www.salvadordalimuseum.org.
Museum of Fine Arts
Best Museum for Reflection
The museum has the most inclusive art collection including European, American, Asian and Pre-Columbian art. The galleries present both antique and contemporary art. Stop in the new gift shop on the way out for a memorable keepsake. Call (727) 896-2667 or
visit www.fine-arts.org.
Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo
Best Encounter with a Camel Outside the Desert
Ranked the number one family-friendly zoo in the U.S., Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo offers outdoor exhibits featuring over 2,000 wild animals. Be sure to ride the camel and visit the Zoo’s new Flume ride. Call (813) 935-8552 or visit www.lowryparkzoo.com.
Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center
Best Venue to See a Broadway show, Not on Broadway
President and CEO Judy Lisi is responsible for bringing Broadway classics My Fair Lady and the exclusive Jersey Boys to the downtown center. Stay tuned to see what Lisi, winner of the Ambasador of the Year Award, brings this season. Call (813) 229-7827 or visit www.tbpac.org.
The Palladium
Best Community Theater
Housed at St. Petersburg College, Executive Director Paul Wilborn brings flavor to downtown St. Pete with unique programming of art and theater, including Side Door Cabaret and Jazz. Call (727) 822-3590 or visit www.mypalladium.org.
Ruth Eckerd Hall
Best Intimate Concert Hall
Nominated as one of the top five concert halls in the U.S., the single-venue theater brings a variety of musical talent from B.B. King to Cyndi Lauper. Both community groups and national organizations also lease the venue. Call (727) 791-7400 or visit www.rutheckerdhall.com.
The Mahaffey Theater
Best Theater with a View
The venue presents breathtaking waterfront views with floor to ceiling windows in the lobby and comfortable seating with the addition of the new ballroom. The theater hosts a wide variety of events including popular music, dance, and The Florida Orchestra. Call (727) 892-5767 or visit www.mahaffeytheater.com.
Tampa Theatre
Best First Date Theatre
Grab a bag of popcorn, a soda with two straws and cuddle up with your date for the opening credits. From black-and white classics to indie films the Tampa Theatre takes the stage. Call (813) 274-8981 or visit www.tampatheatre.org.
Patel Conservatory
Best Outlet for Undiscovered Talent
Housed at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, the Patel Conservatory offers classes in dance, media arts, acting and theater. Explore new talents through weekly voice, piano, acting and dance lessons. Call (813) 222-1002 or visit www.patelconservatory.org.
Museum of Science and Industry
Best Interactive Museum
MOSI helps to spark the interest of young scientists through fun exhibits, the IMAX Theater and the planetarium. Call (813) 987-6000 or visit www.mosi.org.
Busch Gardens
Best Thrill Rides
With plenty of heart pounding rides, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. For those with a weak stomach, the park also offers shows, animal attractions and kiddy rides – don’t miss the latest addition, Jungala. Call (813) 987-5082 or visit www.buschgardens.com.
The Florida Aquarium
Best Under the Sea Experience
The Florida Aquarium serves to educate and inspire visitors to conserve our natural ecosystem. The fish, sharks and seahorses offer up close and personal views. Call (813) 273-4000 or visit www.flaquarium.org.
NOVA 535
Best Artistic Lounge Space
Inspired by some of the world’s most renowned art galleries, NOVA 535 displays local artists in a swanky, laid back setting. NOVA 535 also showcases live music and theater performances, guest DJ’s, film screenings, fashion shows and much more. Call (727) 821- 6682 or visit www.nova535.com.
Studio @ 620
Best Community Involved Art Studio
The art studio, built on the belief that art and diversity are crucial to enriching lives, showcases all mediums of art and provides an open mic forum to encourage plenty of community involvement. Call (727) 895-6620 or visit www.studio620.org.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Best Player’s Club
For the all night partier, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is open 24/7/365. Players can choose from 50 tables of live poker or thousands of Vegas style slots to help feed their need for action. Call 1-866-502-7529 or visit www.seminolehardrocktampa.com.
Food and Drink (back to top)
Acropolis
Best Place for Greek Fun
With a belly dancer on the weekends and music, hookah and dancing all week long, this Ybor City treasure is sure to make you feel as if you’re actually in Greece. Also, check out the new location on Bruce B. Downs. Call (813) 242-4545 (Ybor) or (813) 971-1787 (Bruce B. Downs) or visit www.acropolistaverna.com.
Bern’s Steakhouse
Best Dessert Room
After enjoying one of Bern’s famous steaks, cozy up in one of their intimate secluded booths and enjoy a delicious dessert and after dinner drink for the perfect end to a perfect meal. Call (813) 251-2421 or visit www.bernssteakhouse.com.
Dinner Done
Best Home Cooked Meal
For the person who never knows what’s for dinner, Dinner Done has the solution. Pick up or prepare ready to go meals – kitchen mess, not included. Call (813) 264-7700 (Carrollwood) or (813) 684-6900 (Brandon) or visit www.dinnerdone.com.
Fly Bar and Restaurant
Best Trendy Rooftop Deck
With live music and views of the Hillsborough River and Downtown Tampa, this hotspot is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy cocktails and appetizers while people watching with friends. Call (813) 275-5000 or visit www.flybarandrestaurant.com.
717 South
Best Cultural Blend
Choose from the Italian or the Pacific Rim menu at this artsy locale. Fresh ingredients are key here and come to life on the plate and the palate. Come by on Thursday nights for live music. Call (813) 250-1661 or visit www.seven17south.com.
Marchand’s Bar & Grill
Best Spot for Anniversary Dinner
This chic eatery, located in the famous Renaissance Vinoy Resort, offers romantic fair with food to match. The Mediterranean style cuisine and global influences make the perfect marriage. Call (727) 824-8072 or visit www.marchandsbarandgrill.com.
Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro
Best Waterfront Dining
Watch the boats sail by while enjoying a relaxing lunch or dinner on the outdoor deck. The diverse cuisine, including Creole influences, is sure to make a lasting impression. Call (727) 894-4429 or visit www.frescoswaterfrontbistro.com.
Salt Rock Grill
Best Seafood
This well-known Indian Shores gem serves some of the best seafood in town. Split an order of the Fresh Market Cioppino entrée and get a taste of all types of seafood. Plus, the views are spectacular. Call (727) 593-7625 or visit www.saltrockgrill.com.
Island Way Grill
Best Celebrity Hotspot
Featuring Continental, Pacific Rim and Island cuisine with a pan-Asian twist, this restaurant, affiliated with NFL professionals Mike Alstott and Dave Moore, is sure to please. Call (727) 461-6617 or visit www.islandwaygrill.com.
Restaurant BT
Best Innovative Cuisine
Experience in the fashion industry is what has enabled restaurateur BT to add an elegant yet creative flourish to the presentation of every dish. Try her Bo Tai Chanh for a taste of French- Vietnamese cuisine on one plate. Call (813) 258-1916 or visit www.restaurantbt.com.
Square One Burgers
Best Nuevo Burger
Create your own burger masterpiece or order one of the house creations such as the ‘Decadent’ burger, or for lighter fair the ‘Chicken Cha Cha Cha’. With thousands of possible combinations, your taste buds will never tire of Square One. Call (813) 414-0101 or visit www.square1burgers.com.
Red Mesa
Best Mexican Food Northeast of the Border
Not only is this Latin inspired restaurant known for its regional charm, but it also has some of the freshest ingredients. Split a pitcher of margaritas and munch on chips and freshly made salsa while waiting on the main course. Call (727) 527-8728 or visit www.redmesarestaurant.com.
Oystercatchers
Best Sunday Brunch
Enjoy the waterfront view and new contemporary décor while sampling this award winning brunch. Select a made to order omelet just the way you like it, grab a couple choice selections from the Raw Bar too. Call (813) 207-6815.
Pane Rustica
Best Place for Fresh Baked Goods
A great spot for lunch, dinner or simply coffee and a pastry, Pane Rustica serves delicious fresh treats all day long. Try a brick oven pizza for lunch and you’ll be hooked. Call (813) 902-8828 or visit www.panerusticabakery.com.
Byblos
Best Mediterranean
Order a combination kabob for a little taste of everything. Belly dancers will make your experience at this Lebanese classic unforgettable, for the more adventurous diners, guests are invited to join the dancers. Call (813) 805-7977 or visit www.bybloscafe.com.
El Cap
Best Retro Burger
Watch the game on one of their 18 TVs while sinking teeth into a mouth-watering burger. A side of fries is a must. Wash it all down with an ice-cold beer for an All-American experience. Call (727) 521-1314.
Malio’s
Best Riverfront Terrace
Enjoy one of the best steaks in town or a succulent rack of lamb while overlooking the Hillsborough River on a beautiful canopied terrace. Indoor, “Rat-Pack” style booths are also available. Call (813) 223-7746 or visit www.malios.com.
Columbia Restaurant
Best Flamenco Dancers
In business for over 100 years, this family-run restaurant brings the flavor of Spain in both food and entertainment. Catch one of the two nightly performances by the restaurant’s acclaimed dance troupe. Call (813) 248-4961 (Ybor) or visit www.columbiarestaurant.com for more locations and information.
Kojak’s
Best Traditional BBQ
The family owned eatery is set in a quaint bungalow style home and serves some of the best ribs in town, pair with cole slaw, a side of baked beans and a glass of sweet tea for the ultimate summer meal. Call (813) 837-3774 or visit www.kojaksbbq.com.
Royal Palace Thai
Best Curry in the Park
The Damrong family continues to bring classic Thai to Hyde Park. The Panag Curry with meat of your choice is flavorful and addictive. Call (813) 258-5893 or visit www.royalpalacethai.com.
Jasmine Thai
Best Lunch Special Under 20 Bucks
Enjoy soup, appetizer and choice of entrée on the cheap, Mon.-Sun. until 3:00—did we mention it’s healthy, flavorful and not from a drive thru. Call (813) 968-1501 (North Tampa), (813) 350-9592 (South Tampa), (813) 662-3635 (Brandon).
Wine Cellar
Best Pinot Aficionados
This restaurant gets its name for a reason. The extensive wine list spans the globe, enjoy playing with pairings to create the perfect food and wine combo. Call (727) 393-3491 or visit www.thewinecellar.com
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The Pearl Restaurant
Best Sauce Creations
The saying ‘The secret’s in the sauce’ rings true in owner and head Chef Karim Chiadmi’s dishes. From mint to Sherry wine to orange, taste buds will rejoice. Call (727) 360-9151 or visit
www.gotothepearl.com.
Wright’s Gourmet House
Best Deli Outside the City
Try one of the favorites: The Beef Martini or the Golden Gate, and you’ll understand why this local café deli is such a hit. Don’t forget dessert, the carrot cake is to die for. Call (813) 253-3838 or visit www.wrightsgourmet.com.
Moon Under Water Café
Best Beer on Tap
With its international cuisine and selection of rare beers, this pub style restaurant located in the heart of downtown St. Pete is sure to please. Try an Old Peculiar beer and find out what’s behind the name. Call (727) 896-6160.
Home and Garden (back to top)
BoConcept
Best Urban Design Furniture
BoConcept offers urban-chic home furnishings with modular, custom designs. Skilled interior consultants help customers make the best choices for their homes. Call (813) 287-0400 or visit www.boconcept.com.
Cazou
Best Dining Accessories
Cazou, located in South Tampa, offers candle holders, glasses, dishes and coasters from around the world to enhance the home or a perfect gift. Stop in to view the ever-changing selection. Call (8130 251-6410 or visit www.shopcazou.com.
Four Elements
Best Place for a House Warming Gift
Choose from a selection of handcrafted platters, glassware, decanters and more. Pair matching linens to the serving items and all that’s left is to plan the party. Call (813) 835-4444 or visit www.yourtabletopstop.com.
RocoTraders
Best Eclectic Furnishings
The Mexican inspired shop varies in items such as wooden furniture, pottery and jewelry. The South of the Border motif is due in part to the owners frequent buying trips to Mexico – Ole! Call (727) 895-8922 or visit www.rocotraders.com.
Magnolia
Best Gallery Style Shop
A charming storefront with both modern and traditional home accessories definitely catches the eye. Magnolia’s carries everything from rustic garden accessories to delicate, crocheted lace pillows – an ideal stop for re-decorating ideas. Call (813) 254-3337 or visit www.magnoliastyle.com.
TOM Furniture Showroom
Best Trendsetting Furniture
The Slovenian-manufactured furniture includes three different styles including TOM’s newest, creative and colorful Avant-garde collection. But quality and comfort isn’t compromised for sleek designs and fine Italian leather. Call (813) 837-5852 or visit www.tomfurnitureusa.com.
Robyn Story Designs and Boutique
Best Assortment of Home Decor
Robyn Story’s hidden treasure boutique in North Tampa has been attracting customers originally for her beautifully realistic collection of silk flowers. Unique furniture and framed art are also sold to liven up the home. Call (813) 931-9307 or visit www.robynstorydesigns.com.
Casa Nova
Best Home Emporium
From eco-friendly upholstery to finds from around the globe, Casa Nova offers a wide selection of décor for the home. Call 813-837-8282 or visit www.shopcasanova.com.
Goodnight Moon
Best “Green” Bedding
This St. Petersburg luxury linen shop offers customers high thread counts and eco-friendly sheets. The natural linens are free from chemical dyes and bleach leaving only pure softness. Help the environment with-out sacrificing comfort. Call (727) 898-2801 or visit www.goodnightmoonlinens.com.
being
Best Hybrid Home Shop
Whether looking for a new in-table or distinctive home accessories, browse through an array of choices at being. Modern furniture with clean lines, and with so much to choose from, the hard part is not buying out the store. Call 727-822-6252.
Milagro’s
Best Moisturizing Soap
This seemingly holy soap isn’t really made by nuns, but the glycerin soap moisturizes plenty without having to pray for it. The soap loaves are sold at either of Milagro’s two locations in Tampa and St. Pete.
Call (813) 251-1255 or (727) 821-7555 or visit www.sisteragnes.com.
Christian-Italiano
Best Rustic Country Furniture
This homey furniture store is nestled in the retail heaven of the MacDill and Bay to Bay area. The store also offers design services such as flooring, kitchen and bath. Call (813) 839-2076 or visit www.kisdesignstudio.com.
The Silver Queen
Best Silver Emporium
Located in Largo, The Silver Queen satisfies any silver needs from candlesticks and tea sets to silver polish kits. They also offer services such as bridal registry and they even buy your old silver, china and crystal. Call (727) 581-6827 or visit www.silverqueen.com.
– Compiled by Shelley Green, Ronda M. Parag, Caitlin Carlson, Erika Flores, Rachel Simon and Ashley Torres
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